Understandably, this was Chrysler’s top-of-the-line vehicle and the pinnacle of post-war glamour. The Town and Country was a dazzling expression of status when new and remains so today. Built on a New Yorker chassis, the 1948 Town and Country had a base price of $3,220 before options (a 20 percent premium over the cost of a comparable New Yorker). Despite these obstacles, convertible production actually increased over the previous year by 173 units to 3,309.

Unique rear deck and taillights were manufactured for the “T&C.” Wooden parts came from Pekin Wood Products in Helena, Arkansas (a subsidiary of Chrysler), while steel body parts came from Briggs. They were then shipped to Chrysler’s Jefferson Avenue plant in Detroit for final assembly. The wood framing was assembled prior to being fitted to the body which required extensive hand-formed contouring of the compound curved frames so they mated to the metal body parts correctly.

In late 1947, the mahogany veneer panels gave way to Di-Noc, a decal-type material, though the ash framing remained. Nonetheless, a considerable amount of hand-finishing went into each and every Town and Country which not only accounted for its high price tag, but also its limited production numbers. The 1948 models were the final Town and Countries to include the white ash framing as integral to the structure of the car.

Finished in Polo Green over a maroon interior, this example is an older restoration that has always been maintained. It has been serviced annually and has been stored in a heated garage since the consignor first purchased the car in 2000. The consignor adds that the carburetor has been rebuilt and functions perfectly, which makes for a great driving example of this very desirable CCCA Full Classic.

Addendum

Please note that this lot is now being offered without reserve.

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